A multi-purpose cultural space showing theatre, films and more, Royal’s building has a long history and today is a revived gorgeous example of inter-war Czechoslovakia architecture and design.

Founded by Emanuel Maceška in 1929 as a cinema, the wildly popular venue (called Maceška) underwent a steady downfall following World War II. The cinema was taken over by the communist state, renamed Illusion and acted at various points as a cinema and theatre. The Maceška family received the now much rundown property back as restitution after the Velvet Revolution, but it was never restored to its former glory. Until a Frenchman stepped in, negotiated a long-term rental agreement with the Maceška family and undertook a massive renovation that shockingly saw much of the original fittings and furnishings able to be used. The theatre today is a glorious ode to 1920s Czechoslovakia and the culture and design scene thriving at that time.

The Royal’s programme is very English-friendly with weekly Burlesque shows, new circus acts, film nights and more. The décor is living room style with lots of comfy chairs and tables scattered about in front of the stage, plus a long bar for drinks during the show.